Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of South Texas Children’s Home Ministries’s International Ministry?
STCHM is committed to the care and development of orphans and at-risk children through evangelism and loving interactions, providing needed resources such as food, medical and dental clinics, and construction projects for orphanages, schools, and churches. In addition STCHM is firmly committed to an on-going partnership with local churches, Christian schools, and childcare organizations who are dedicated to caring for children and strengthening families. You can be assured that the seeds of your efforts will be nurtured and continued as you return home.

What experience do you have in mission trips?
Joanna Berry, STCHM vice-president of International Ministry, has a long history of experience in Latin America. Raised in the Dominican Republic by missionary parents, she has traveled and been involved with missionary activities in many countries and speaks Spanish fluently. She will organize, coordinate with local Christian leaders and service organizations, and supervise all trips.

What kinds of ministry activities and projects are available?
All kinds of ministry to children are needed—Backyard Bible Clubs, VBS, camp and recreational activities, handcrafts, puppets, musical and drama programs, or taking an orphan or needy child shopping or on an outing to the zoo or to the beach.
Medical ministry—medical, dental and eye clinics
Construction—benches, chapels, school and camp facilities

Please note: We will customize a mission trip for your group that matches your resources, talents and interests. Contact Joanna Berry with your requests.

How can I sign up to go on a mission trip?
Download and complete the application form and return it along with a $200.00 non-refundable deposit to STCHM, P.O. Box 759, Beeville, TX 78104 as early as possible. We will send you a confirmation packet with additional information and forms to sign. Spaces are limited and may fill up quickly. STCHM reserves the right to cancel any trip, and in that event, your deposit will be quickly refunded.

Who will make my travel arrangements?
Our staff will research the best rates and schedules available from your preferred departure city, obtain group rates when possible, and contact you with a proposed itinerary for your approval.

What is the cost of going on a mission trip and what does it cover?
The total cost of the trip, which includes both the land and air package, is approximately $1500 to $1700. The complete land package price can vary between $600.00 and $730.00 for adults (around $500 for children under 12 years of age), depending on activities and accommodations. It includes transportation, food, bottled drinking water, lodging, recreation fees, interpreters and guides. The airfare is dependent on the season and other factors out of our control but typically runs between $800 to $900, which includes taxes and surcharges.

* Please note that prices are subject to change. However, firm prices for land and airfare costs will be quoted to you at the time a mission trip is booked.

How can I pay for the trip?
Land Package Cost - The balance of trip costs for the land portion of expenses (after the $200 deposit) is divided into two equal payments, with payment in full required 45 days before departure. Specific dates for these payments will be arranged at the time of your booking.
Airfare Package Cost – There are a couple of options for paying for airfare, depending on your circumstances. For individuals or groups under 10, airline arrangements can be made by South Texas Children’s Home Ministries who will then give participants their confirmation number; each traveler must then place the cost of their ticket on their own credit card within 24 hours after the reservation is made. For guaranteed groups of 10 or more, the airlines will allow group reservations. STCHM will reserve flights for groups of 10 or more and airfare payment may be made in two equal payments to STCHM, as with the land cost, with payment in full required 45 days before departure.

What costs are NOT covered?
You will need additional pocket money for meals while traveling to and from the field, snacks and souvenirs.

What additional funds might we need to support our ministry projects?
Depending on the ministry activities, there may be a need for funds to cover expenses such as medicines for medical clinics, construction materials for a building project, or supplies for an orphanage or a school. These activities and approximate costs will be discussed and chosen according to your group’s interests and the needs of the ministry. Information will be provided to help you share these needs and opportunities for giving with interested individuals and church groups.

Do I need immunizations?
Immunizations are not required, but you should consult a qualified medical professional for specific recommendations for your individual needs.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, you must have a current passport to travel outside the United States. Information on obtaining a passport can be obtained by visiting your local post office, or on the web.

Who can go on a STCHM sponsored mission trip?
STCHM is focused on family and church groups of all ages. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. It is recommended that children be at least 6 years of age or older. Also welcome are individuals with special skills such as health professionals, teachers, construction abilities along with all those who have a heart to love children and a desire to encourage and support those who minister to children in Jesus name. We are always in need of participants who have the ability to speak Spanish to help with interpretation and communication.

What are the accommodations like?
Trip accommodations depend on the ministry activities and location, and can vary between dormitories or individual rooms for couples and families at a mission compound to hotel room accommodations. We try to honor special requests when possible. More specific information on accommodations will be provided in your confirmation packet for the trip you have selected.

What about the food and drinking water?
Bottled water is provided for drinking. You will enjoy a variety of food, both American and native, carefully prepared either by the ministry staff or in restaurants recommended by the staff. Many of our mission trippers say with a smile, “You will definitely not lose weight during your mission trip!”

If I sponsor a Samuel’s Fund child, can I visit my Samuel’s Fund child while on a mission trip?
Yes, you can. Contact Joanna Berry at 361-991-8680 or for information and assistance.

South Texas Children’s Home Ministries is a tax exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
P.O. Box 759, Beeville, TX 78104 • 361-375-2101
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